Novak Djokovic teased over Tokyo Olympics with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal absent

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Novak Djokovic has been told it is his chance to win the Olympics with the likes of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal absent from the tournament in Tokyo. Djokovic has enjoyed an incredible year so far winning the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon.

Juan Martin Del Potro has told Djokovic this is his moment to secure a gold medal – the only achievement he has left to tick off in his astounding career.

The draw for the tournament takes place tomorrow with the Serbian the overwhelming favourite.

Ahead of flying to Japan, Djokovic took to Instagram speaking of his pride of playing for his country.

“Honoured to play for my people and my country at the Olympics. Wheels up, see you in Tokyo,” Djokovic wrote.

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Former world number three Del Potro replied to the post: “I’ll be watching you! This time you have your chance amigo!”

Djokovic’s best Olympics result came at the 2008 Beijing Games.

He defeated James Blake in the bronze medal match but will look for gold this time around.

Federer will be absent as he looks to protect his body and lengthen his career as the 39-year-old looks for more success.

He explained: “During the grass-court season, I unfortunately experienced a setback with my knee, and have accepted that I must withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic Games.

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“I am greatly disappointed, as it has been an honour and highlight of my career each time I have represented Switzerland.

“I have already begun rehabilitation in the hopes of returning to the tour later this summer.

“I wish the entire Swiss team the best of luck and I will be rooting hard from a far. As always Hopp Schwiz!”

Djokovic is excited to play in Tokyo and has made no secret of his desire for gold.

He said: “It is grueling (schedule), but I am confident because of all of the wins this season.

“Winning a medal is my goal, and it is not a secret I am aiming for the gold.”

The tennis event at the Olympics has already been hit by a string of withdrawals by high profile names on both the men’s and women’s side, with Federer, Nadal, Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka among the big names to have pulled out of the games.

Although the lack of top players coupled with no crowds able to attend in Tokyo have caused many to put an asterisk by the result of the event before it has even started, the 20-time Grand Slam champion isn’t worried about the extra factors.

“I’ve met Blanka Vlašić recently and she told me that in the future people won’t remember the conditions or whether there were people in the stands, but who has won medals,” Djokovic said.

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